Find ATM’s online

Most ATMs typically accept Cirrus, Maestro, and MasterCard. ATMs that accept Visa (Plus) and AmEx are available, but a lot harder to find.

Most banks charge an ATM usage fee of between CL$2,000 and CL$2,500. Make sure to go to the bank early; sometimes they run out of money during the day. During our stay, the Banco del Estado, Scotiabank, and its associates did not charge a fee for withdrawing money.

ATM’s, Banks and “Casa de Cambios” in Ushuaia (Dientes de Navarinio)

Unlock your GeoControl for (European) Maestro Cards

If you are from Europe, most of the Maestro Cards are protected via a GeoControl feature. That means if you want to use your Maestro Card outside of Europe you have to turn off the GeoControl for the time and country where you want to travel.To unlock the GeoControl, login into your online banking account, search for GeoControl and turn it off.

Traveler’s checks and “Casa de Cambios” at the end of the world

Traveler’s checks are accepted at most hotels but nearly nowhere else. If you feel safer carrying a few traveler’s checks with you, Traveler’s checks can be purchased at most banks ($20, $50, $100, $500).

You can also exchange your money in banks, hotels or exchange houses (known in Chile as “Casa de Cambios”). However, exchange houses will give the best rate. There are many Casa de Cambios in the bigger cities in Patagonia (Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales). There will be a few places which will accept Dollars but don’t rely on this option.

Patagonia isn’t a cheap destination so make sure to always have money with you. Make sure to still have smaller bank notes with you, especially in more remote areas. Smaller shops or restaurants might not be able to give you change.